FG unveils SEEDCODEX to check adulterated seeds

AS part of efforts to check circulation and purchase of adulterated seeds, the Federal Government (FG) on Friday unveiled SEEDCODEX, a platform to verify seed quality.

The platform made public by the statutory body mandated to regulate seed usage in the country, National Agricultural Seeds Council (NASC), is to further check the spread of adulterated seeds.

Dr. Philip Ojo, NASC Director-General had repeatedly stated that the use of fake or substandard seeds pose threat to the nation’s food security target.

He, as well, warned that such action is a criminal offence that could attract jail terms.

However, the SEEDCODEX is basically a short messaging code system that allows farmers to text particular number on their seed packs to verify the authenticity of the seed bought.

Ojo further described the official unveiling as such that is in line with the current administration’s drive to ensure farmers get access to quality inputs thereby achieving Food Security in the country.